3 Must-Do Trails in Phoenix
Phoenix, and it’s surrounding suburbs, provides some pretty renowned trails that locals and visitors love to explore. The list is a pretty long one, but if you’re new to the area, or to the idea of hiking, here are 3 Must-Do Trails while you’re here.
1. Camelback Mountain
The most famous of hikes in Phoenix is Camelback Mountain, located in the middle of Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley. Well-known amongst tourists, this mountain with an elevation of 2,704 ft, offers different trail options depending on your skill level. The two trails are called Echo Canyon and Cholla. While Echo Canyon is more rugged and steep, Cholla is a longer route.
Echo Canyon is the favored trail by your average hiker. In just over a mile, it ascends 1,400 feet up the western side of Camelback. The trek provides some excellent cardio, and you’ll feel the burn as you head up the rocky incline. Remember that you can turn around at any point, but with it’s outstanding views of the desert terrain and city below, many hikers choose to continue on up. Always know your limits and have plenty of water with you. Too many tourists have found themselves in bad situations by underestimating the Phoenix temperatures and/or the difficulty of the path.
The Cholla trail is well-maintained one and goes up Camelback’s east wing. The trail becomes extra challenging and is made for more experienced climbers as you reach it’s ridgeline. Cholla becomes progressively more steep as you go up, so it is not recommended for kids and those who have little hiking experience. This is considered to be a difficult trail, so come prepared with the right shoes, attire, and snacks. As mentioned, hikers can turn around if you start to feel the trail is beyond your limitations. There are guided tours available as well that you can check out below.
PARKING
Camelback Mountain has become such a spectacle that parking may be an issue. Note that parking is only allowed between sunrise and sunset. For the Cholla trail, hikers can park both on the east and west sides of Invergordon Road. From there you’ll walk to Cholla Lane then head west toward the trailhead. Pay attention to those NO PARKING signs because tickets do get issued here regularly. As for Echo Canyon, the parking lot at the base of Echo Canyon has been enlarged to make room for more vehicles as of recent. If the lot is full, the guard may instruct you to park down the street or wait outside in the line of cars outside as spots become available.
3 Must-Do Trails in Phoenix
2. WATERFALL TRAIL
A natural waterfall…in Phoenix?! If you’re looking for a trail that is far less crowded and much easier to accomplish, then Waterfall Trail is a great option. This 1.8 mile out-and-back trail is located within the White Tank Mountain Regional Park in the west valley. It is considered an easy hike with a paved trail and barrier-free route, suitable for all.
While many hikers boast about Waterfall Trails’ beauty and the array of desert plants and animals, most come here for the waterfall. In which case, the best time to visit this trail is between November and April, or after a good downpour. The waterfall itself ranges from a drip to a nice flowing fall based on how much rain the area has received. Even though it’s a very easy trail, bring water, and be on the lookout for snakes. They do slither across this trail occasionally. On average, Waterfall Trail takes approximately 45 minutes to complete. Parking is pretty easy here. Employees will direct you to the lot as you enter the park, and hand you a map as well. It is a $7 entry fee, which gives you access to Black Rock Loop Trail as well. Check out the video above for a glance at Waterfall Trail.
P.S. Dogs are allowed on leashes!
3 Must-Do Trails in Phoenix
3. Pinnacle Peak Trail
Pinnacle Peak is a well-maintained trail in North Scottsdale that has spectacular views but is considered medium-difficulty due to it’s length. It’s close to 4 miles out-and-back, taking well over 2 hours to complete.
From the top you’ll gaze upon mansions, golf courses, and other amazing mountains and rock formations. Pinnacle Peak provides a solid cardio workout with a steady enough incline to feel some burn. It’s well marked and has multiple overlooks, making it one of the highest rated trails in the city. Parking is also pretty easy and close to the trailhead. Dogs are not allowed on this hike, but you might see other animals along the way. Check out some other useful quick facts at the park’s website HERE.
3 Must-Do Trails in Phoenix
HIKING IN PHOENIX
There are many other trails in and around the Valley of the Sun. I’ll cover more of those in the future, so bookmark this site, and/or subscribe to the newsletter to keep up. I know I’ve said it, but I’ll say it again because it’s crucial: always have plenty of H2O with you. Whether the trail is easy or difficult, staying hydrated is important to avoid injury or worse, even on cooler days. If you enjoyed this article, be sure to check out my guide to trails in Sedona as well HERE and HERE. Thanks for reading. Stay tuned for more!
3 Must-Do Trails in Phoenix
